JP2002361123A - All-round distribution system for pushing out filamentous liquid by support of air - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an all-round distribution system for pushing out a filamentous liquid by the support of air. SOLUTION: The all-round distribution system is constituted so as to distribute a liquid material by air supporting fiberizations different in shape, that is, the motion of a filament (for example, melt blowoff or fiberization to be controlled). Particularly, the access from the front for mounting a selected nozzle requires only the regulation of one lever and one fastener. The features of the lever and the nozzle support the discharge from the nozzle even when the die comes into close contact with a die body through use. In addition, the nozzle attaching surface of the die body provides an all-round interface to the nozzle of every type. The air cavity of the die body and the air trough of the nozzle of selected type equilibrate an air flow to regulate the same.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a dispensing system for applying a liquid material, and more particularly to a dispensing system for dispensing a thread, that is, a liquid thread such as a hot-melt adhesive to a substrate.

[0002]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Various liquid dispensing systems employ air assisted extrusion nozzles to apply a viscous material, such as a thermoplastic material, onto a moving substrate. These systems are often used to form nonwoven products. For example, meltblowing systems can be used when manufacturing products such as diapers and feminine hygiene products. Generally, a melt-blowing system includes a source of liquid thermoplastic material, a source of pressurized process air, and a manifold for distributing the liquid material and process air. A plurality of modules or distribution valves are mounted on the manifold to receive liquid and process air and distribute the elongated filamentous liquid material. The filaments are diluted and lowered by air and randomly applied on the substrate. Generally, the tip or nozzle of the melt-blowing die includes a plurality of liquid discharge orifices arranged in rows and slots for distributing air to each side of the row of liquid discharge orifices. It is also well known to replace the slots with two rows of air discharge orifices parallel to the row of liquid discharge orifices.

[0003] Fiberized controlled dispensing systems also use air-assisted extrusion nozzles. On the other hand, the pressurized process air of these systems is used to swirl the extruded filamentous liquid. A conventional swirl nozzle or die tip typically has a central liquid discharge passage surrounded by a plurality of process air discharge passages. The liquid discharge passage is centrally located at the protrusion. The general shape of the protrusion is conical, that is, a frustoconi with a liquid discharge passage open at the apex.
cal). The process air discharge passage is generally located at the base of the protrusion. The process air discharge passages are typically arranged in a radially symmetric pattern about the central liquid discharge passage. The process air discharge passages are oriented substantially in contact with the liquid discharge orifices and are all bent clockwise or counterclockwise about the central liquid discharge passage.

[0004] Another type of air assist nozzle, referred to herein as a dual radiating nozzle, includes a wedge-shaped member having a pair of sides converging on a vertex. The liquid discharge passage extends along an axis passing through the wedge member and the apex. The wedge-shaped member extends radially asymmetrically with respect to the liquid discharge passage. Four process air discharge passages are located at the base of the wedge. At least one process air discharge passage is disposed adjacent each side, and each process air discharge passage is generally complexly bent toward the liquid discharge passage and is deflected from the axis of the liquid discharge passage.

[0005]

These and other types of air-assisted extrusion nozzles generally require periodic maintenance due to accumulation of dust, hardened liquid material, or other reasons. Each distribution valve must loosen at least two bolts from the manifold. The nozzle is then removed from the dispensing valve and another nozzle is attached to the valve. If necessary, reinstall the valve on the manifold.
Accordingly, such repairs may increase the downtime required for valve and nozzle removal and replacement. Eliminating the entire dispensing valve with a mounted nozzle is a prerequisite for changing applications (eg, from melt blowing to fiberized control).

For these reasons, it is desirable to provide an apparatus and method for quickly changing the nozzle of a die assembly without encountering various problems with conventional liquid distribution systems. It would also be desirable to provide easy maintenance and replacement of the air assisted extrusion nozzle.

[0007]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides a method for dispensing a thread-like liquid that may or may not be assisted by pressurized process air. The apparatus includes a housing having a liquid supply passage and a nozzle mounting surface that can be located in a recess in the housing. The nozzle includes an inlet side located adjacent the mounting surface, an outlet side having at least one liquid discharge orifice, and optionally a plurality of process air discharge passages adjacent the liquid discharge orifice. When properly mounted and aligned with the mounting surface, the liquid discharge orifice and the process air discharge air passage are in fluid communication with the housing liquid supply passage and, if applicable, the process air supply passage. In one aspect of the invention, the nozzle ejection lever is pivotally attached to the housing and pivots from a first position to a second position. In the first position, the nozzle can be mounted adjacent to the mounting surface as described above, and the nozzle is torn from the mounting surface as the ejection lever moves to the second position. This means
It helps to remove nozzles that may stick to the housing due to thermoplastic liquids or other reasons.

In another aspect of the invention, a nozzle positioning lever is pivotally mounted on the housing and moves between first and second positions. In the first position, the positioning lever causes the nozzle to be sealingly mounted within the recess of the housing and adjacent the mounting surface. In the second position, the positioning lever holds the nozzle in the recess, the process air discharge passage in fluid communication with the process air supply passage, and the liquid discharge orifice in fluid communication with the liquid supply passage. In a preferred embodiment, the positioning lever and the ejection lever can be one and the same, with different parts of the lever performing the functions of positioning and ejection.

In another aspect of the invention, a clamping lever is pivotally mounted to the housing and operates in conjunction with the nozzle and housing cam surfaces to clamp the nozzle within the recess of the housing. In a preferred embodiment, the positioning lever is used to first position the nozzle in the recess and temporarily hold the nozzle in the recess. Next, the nozzle is fixedly fixed in the recess during the dispensing operation by using the tightening lever. For nozzle replacement, repair and other maintenance purposes, the clamping lever can be loosened and the positioning / ejection lever can be used to at least partially remove the nozzle from the recess.

In another embodiment of the present invention, a tightening /
A discharge lever is provided, and the nozzle is fastened and fixed to a proper position of the housing by a single lever, and the nozzle can be discharged from the housing and the nozzle mounting surface. The lever can be pivotally attached to the housing, one portion of which is formed by one or more cam surfaces. Each cam surface of the lever engages one or more cam surfaces of the nozzle to clamp the nozzle in place in the housing. The other part of the lever can be used to discharge the nozzle by rotating the lever in the opposite direction.
Preferably, the nozzle and the housing each include an engaging portion for aligning the nozzle with the housing. In this embodiment, these locations take the form of one or more tabs on the nozzle and one or more aligned slots on the housing adjacent the nozzle mounting surface. The ejection site of the lever can engage the tub to provide the necessary burring force to eject the nozzle.

In a further aspect of the invention, the dispensing valve includes an upper pneumatic section, the upper pneumatic section having a diaphragm / piston arrangement to open and close the valve. The diaphragm can be housed in a chamber having upper and lower pressurized air supply ports. The upper chamber in this embodiment includes a further port that may or may not be plugged. Upon closure, the pressurized air in the upper chamber can be used to bias the diaphragm / piston assembly downward to close the valve. When the stopper is removed, the pressurized air introduced into the upper chamber is immediately discharged, and the spring return mechanism takes over the valve closing mechanism.

A plurality of nozzles are provided in the liquid distribution apparatus of the present invention, and each nozzle emits a different thread pattern. For example, the first nozzle may be configured to distribute the melt-blown filament, and the second nozzle may be configured to distribute the pattern of the swirling filament. Each nozzle is configured to be received in a recess such that the liquid discharge orifice of the nozzle and the process air discharge passage are in fluid communication with the liquid supply passage and the process air supply passage of the housing, respectively. Each nozzle is designed symmetrically so that the nozzles can rotate 180 ° and further within the recesses of the housing. In this regard, the nozzle includes cam surfaces on both side wall portions thereof, each of which can be interchangeably engaged with the cam surface of the clamping lever, ie the cam surface formed on the wall of the recess.

The various advantages, objects, and features of the present invention will become more readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention, together with the summary of the invention described above, and the following detailed description of the embodiments serves to clarify the principles of the invention.

[0014]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS In order to describe the preferred embodiment, directional languages such as "upper", "vertical", "horizontal", "right", "left" are used for clarity in conjunction with the drawings. Used for As is well known, liquid dispensing devices can be oriented in virtually any orientation, and language indicating these directions should not be used to suggest a particular absolute direction for the device associated with the present invention.

To simplify the description of the present invention, illustrative embodiments are described below in connection with some types of nozzles for dispensing thermoplastic liquids, such as thermoplastic adhesives that melt with heat. One skilled in the art will readily appreciate the application of the present invention to other material dispensing and other types of nozzles.

FIG. 1 and in particular FIG. 2 show a liquid distribution device 10 for extruding a thread-like liquid with the aid of air. The distribution device 10 includes a distribution valve or die module 12 and a manifold 14. One or more die modules 12 can be mounted in side-by-side relationship with a manifold 14 that distributes liquid material and pressurized air to each die module 12.
Each dispensing valve or die module 12 includes a housing 18
Includes an air valve mechanism 16. The air valve mechanism 16 receives the liquid material and is in fluid communication with the manifold 14 leading to the liquid material flow passage of the housing 18. The valves can also be electrically actuated to control the flow of liquid material through distribution valve 12. A detailed description of the air valve mechanism 16 is provided by the assignee of the present invention.
"Liquid Dispenser (Liquid) transferred to rdson Corporation
d Dispensing Device) "
No. 6,155. 6,056,155
The disclosure of this issue is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The housing 18 includes an air supply passage 22 adapted to receive pressurized air from the manifold 14 and two air flow passages 24, 26 on each side of and parallel to the liquid material flow passage 20. Including. Pair air flow path 2
4, 26 mount different types of nozzles, but do not provide different air flow path spacings from air supply path 22. For this reason, the annular air chamber 28 of the housing 18 is in fluid communication with both the air supply passage 22 and the air flow passages 24 and 26 to keep the air flow balanced. Different types of nozzles 32a, 32b, 32c benefit from an even distribution of the air flow. In the illustrated embodiment, these different types of nozzles 32a, 32b, 32c are melt blown, fiberized controlled (hereinafter "swirl"), and are manufactured under the trademark SUMMIT ^TM , the assignee of the present invention Nordson.
There are nozzles sold by Corporation. SU
The MMIT ^TM nozzle is hereinafter referred to as a two-radiating nozzle.

Each part of the distribution valve 12 is a nozzle assembly 3
0 and different types of air assisted extrusion nozzles 32
a is selectively and quickly mounted on the housing 18. In particular, the nozzle assembly 30 includes a clamping structure whereby the dispensing valve 12
Access for removal and attachment of the nozzle 32a to the nozzle 32a. The nozzle 32a is connected to the fixing member of the housing 18, that is, the resistance of the wall 38, and the positioning lever
With this, it is brought into contact with the nozzle mounting surface 36 and frictionally held,
The positioning lever 40 creates a positioning and temporary clamping force parallel to the nozzle mounting surface 36. Temporary support avoids prolonged manual retention of the nozzle 32a. This beneficially reduces the time a user has to touch the surface of the generally hot dispensing valve 12, while at the same time making the installation more convenient. This frictional force from the positioning lever 40 advantageously supports the nozzle 32a, while the pivoting clamping lever 42 secures the nozzle 32a to the nozzle mounting surface 36. In particular, the socket head holding screw 44 is
8, the upper portion 46 of the tightening lever 42 is pivoted outward about the pivot pin 48. Thereby, the lower part 50 of the tightening lever 42 rotates below the nozzle 32a. Specifically, the lower part 50
The cam surface 52 of the nozzle 32a makes inward and upward contact with the front cam surface 54 of the nozzle 32a, and the rear cam surface 56 of the nozzle 32a is similarly supported by the cam surface 58 of the stationary member or wall 38.

As will be described in further detail below, different types of air assisted extrusion nozzles 32a, 32b, 32c can be selected and mounted on the nozzle assembly 30. The air inlets 60, 62 and liquid inlet 64 of each nozzle 32a, 32b, 32c are aligned to be in fluid communication with the liquid material flow passage 20 and the air flow passages 24, 26 of the housing 18, respectively. The flow of pressurized process air is diffused by one or more air troughs 66. Air trough 66 provides a tortuous air flow path through nozzle 32a,
The flow velocity of the air exiting from the process air discharge passage 68 is reduced.

FIG. 3 shows the dispensing valve 12 with the nozzle 32a and the nozzle assembly 30 disassembled to illustrate additional features.
Is shown. The positioning lever 40 and the tightening lever 42 are pivotally connected to the housing 18 by the same pivot pin 48. The positioning lever 40 resides in the slot 72 of the tightening lever 42, and the tightening lever 42 moves when the pivoting lever is in the unlocked or loosened state.
The positioning lever 40 is rotated upward to the discharge position.
The holding screw 44 is held in a screw hole 74 of the tightening lever 42 by a retaining ring 76. Upper surface 7 of nozzle 32a
8 are symmetrical patterns of air inlets 60, 62 and liquid inlets 6;
No. 4, the nozzle 32a can be inserted into one of two positions where one rotates 180 ° from each other. Upper surface 78 further includes nozzle mounting surface 36 (FIGS. 1 and 2).
(See FIG. 3) also includes symmetrically arranged alignment recesses 86, 88 aligned to receive alignment pins 90 secured thereto, which aid in positioning upper surface 78 relative to nozzle mounting surface 36. Become.

FIG. 4 shows a nozzle assembly 30 equipped with a dual-radiation nozzle 32a, which is one type of air-assisted extrusion. A detailed description of the dual radiating nozzle 32a can be found in the commonly assigned "Module and Nozzle for Dispensing a Controlled Pattern of Liquid Material".
For Dispensing Controlled Patterns Of Liquid Mater
ial) ", co-pending US patent application Ser.
No. 71,703. The disclosure is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The melt blowing nozzle 32b and the swirl nozzle 32c shown by a phantom are
It is shaped similarly to 2a and is selectively accommodated in the concave portion 91 of the housing 18.

FIGS. 5-7 illustrate the use of the positioning lever 40 to assist in mounting and ejecting the nozzle 32a.
The tightening lever 42 is adjusted to the unlocked position by adjusting the holding screw 44 outward. For this reason, the cam surface 52 of the tightening lever 42 described in FIG. 5 does not obstruct the unmounted nozzle 32a which moves closer to the nozzle mounting surface 36 and moves upward as shown by the phantom line. The rear centering recess 86 of the nozzle is large enough to hold the centering pin 9
Aligned with zero, the nozzle is shifted slightly forward to avoid damaging the securing member or wall 38 that provides the rear boundary of the recess 91. When the positioning lever 40 is in the discharge position, further upward movement of the nozzle 32a presses on the protrusion 92 of the positioning lever 40, causing the positioning lever 40 to move as shown in FIG.
To the engagement position shown in FIG. In particular, the cam surface 40a
Provides frictional contact with the front surface 41 of the nozzle 32a. This biases the rear cam surface 56 into engagement with the cam surface 58 of the securing member or wall 38, thereby biasing the nozzle 32a against the nozzle mounting surface 36. This temporarily aligns and tightens nozzle 32a within recess 91. At this point, the tightening lever 42 can be moved to the locked position by the fastening fastener 44 (best shown in FIG. 2) during use of the distribution valve 12. This urges the cam surface 52 against the cam surface 54, which causes the nozzle 32a to urge upwardly into a sealed engagement that is clamped against the mounting surface 36.

Referring to FIG. 7, if the nozzle 32a requires repair or replacement with another nozzle, the clamping lever 42 is moved to the unlocked position as shown. Next, the positioning lever 40 is used as a discharge lever and is turned upward toward the discharge position. As the positioning lever 40 is pivoted upward, the protrusion 92 squeezes the upper cam surface 55 of the nozzle 32a downward. The digging force thus applied to the nozzle 32a by the positioning lever 40 overcomes the sticking action of the liquid material accumulated during use.

FIGS. 8-15 show three exemplary types of air-assisted extrusion nozzles 32a, 32b, 32c adapted for universal mounting on the distribution valve 12. FIG.

Referring to FIGS. 9-11, the fiberization controlled nozzle 32c has a circular air trough 94 surrounding a central liquid inlet 96. After being diffused and decelerated in the air trough 94 such that the air injection holes 98 do not directly receive pressurized air, each air injection hole 98 receives pressurized air from the two air flow passages 24, 26 of the housing 18. . Thus, the flow of air is more uniform for all the air injection holes 98 arranged around the liquid orifice 100 that receives liquid material from the central liquid inlet 96.

FIGS. 8, 12 and 13 show the melt blowing nozzle 32b shown in FIG.
A row of air injection holes 104 is arranged on the side of the second row. As shown in FIG. 13, the flow of air to these air injection holes 104 is balanced, and the orifice 102 is supplied with a matched flow of liquid. The upper surface 78 of the nozzle 32b includes a central elongated slot 106 for transmitting liquid material from the liquid flow passage 20 of the housing 18 across the row of orifices 102. The two elongated air troughs 108, 110 diffuse and slow down the flow of air from each air flow passage 24, 26 to the row of air injection holes 104, respectively.

14 and 15 will be described similarly. The two-radiation nozzle 32a is provided with an orifice 70
And two elongated air troughs 66 to feed the rows of
The flow of air from 6 to the rows of air injection holes 68 each arranged non-radially around the orifice 70 is diffused and decelerated.

For the above reasons, and in addition to other advantages, the nozzle assembly 30 of the dispensing valve 12 of the liquid dispensing system 10 may include various types of air assisted extrusion nozzles 32.
It can be easily reconfigured for a, 32b, 32c without the need to disassemble distribution valve 12 from manifold 14 or remove multiple fasteners.

FIG. 16 shows another distribution valve or die module 120 comprising a valve body 122. Valve body 1
22 is fastened to a suitable support such as a liquid and air supply manifold (not shown) by individual fasteners 124 that can engage tools at the front side of the valve body 122. In this drawing, the internal valve mechanism is omitted for clarity. Nozzle assembly 1 at lower end of valve body 122
30 is a nozzle 132a and a clamping / discharging assembly 134
And the assembly 134 is rotatable about a pivot pin 138 secured to the lower portion 140 of the valve body 122 in the direction of the arrow 136. Specifically, the assembly 134 includes a lever 142 having two clamping members 142a, 142b. As discussed further below,
Using this lever 142, the concave portion 148 of the valve body 122
Nozzle 132a can be tightened in place by fastening bolt 144 to surface 146 (FIG. 17) therein. The nozzle 132a can be inserted into the recess 152 of the valve body 122. As in the previous embodiment, a suitable liquid and air supply passage is provided in the valve body 122 and communicates with the link passage of the nozzle 132a. In this regard, a passage 154 is provided to supply liquid to the nozzle 132a,
56 (two of the four shown) may be provided to direct process air to nozzle 132a. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the passages 154 and 156 may take other shapes, such as slots.

Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, a cam surface 160 is formed in the recess 152, and a mating cam surface 162 is formed in the nozzle 132a. On the opposite side, a cam surface 164 is formed on the nozzle 132a, which engages the respective cam surfaces 166, 168 of the clamping members 142a, 142b. The tabs 170 and 172 on both sides of the nozzle 132a are connected to the lever 142 and the valve body 1 respectively.
22 and within respective slots 173, 174. As shown in FIG. 17, in an assembled state, the respective surfaces 176, 1
78 engages, the liquid supply passage 154 communicates with the liquid discharge passage 180, and the process air passage 156 communicates with the nozzle 1
32a communicates with the process air discharge passage 182. Therefore, a liquid such as a hot-melt adhesive and the process air are discharged through the portion 184 of the nozzle 132a. Nozzle 1
32a may be a nozzle portion for discharging the swirling beads of the adhesive as in this example. Nozzles that extrude liquid beads or filaments without the assistance of process air can also be used.

In operation, as shown in FIG.
The nozzle 132a is inserted into the recess 152 by loosening the bolt 144 to such an extent that the nozzle 2 can partially rotate counterclockwise. This allows the nozzle 132a to be inserted, and the tabs 170, 172 have respective slots 174, 173.
Move through. When the nozzle 132a is located in the recess 152, the bolt 144 is tightened against the surface 146. This causes the lever to rotate clockwise, biasing the cam surfaces 166, 168 against the cam surface 164,
Further, the cam surfaces 160, 162 are also biased together to tighten the nozzle and housing mounting surfaces 176, 178 together. To discharge the nozzle 132a, the bolt 14
4 is loosened sufficiently to allow lever 142 to partially rotate counterclockwise as seen in FIG. As a result, the surface portion 142c of the lever 142 is urged against the tab 172 to open the surfaces 176 and 178 from each other and eject the nozzle 132a.

FIG. 18 shows the upper operating portion 20 of the distribution valve 120.
0, and the upper working site 200 is the shaft or rod 2
04 and a reciprocating piston assembly 202 having a piston or diaphragm member 206. Spring return mechanism 210 exerts a force on the shaft or top of rod 204, holding rod 204 and thus valve 120 in a normally closed position. An air port 212 is provided to introduce pressurized air under the piston or diaphragm 206 to lift the shaft or rod 204 and thus release the valve 120. A second port 214 is provided to communicate with the piston or chamber 216 above the diaphragm 206 so that pressurized air can be introduced over the diaphragm 206 in an "air-on-air" configuration. According to another aspect of the invention, another port 2 communicating with the upper chamber 216
18 is provided on the valve body 122. This port 218 can accommodate the threaded plug 220 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 18, when the threaded plug 220 is removed, the pressurized air introduced via the upper supply port 214 is immediately discharged through this port 218. In this case, only the spring assembly 210 provides the closing force of the valve 120.

FIGS. 19 and 20 show two additional alternative nozzles 132b, 132c that can be replaced with nozzles 132a in distribution valve 120. FIG. Nozzle 132b is a melt-blown nozzle having a plurality of liquid discharge orifices 230 at a central ridge or tip 232, and two identical series of process air discharge passages 234 on either side of the central ridge 232.
(Only a series is shown) as described above.
Two additional peaks or tips 236, 238 are located on either side of the central ridge 232 and project beyond the plane containing the central ridge 232. Therefore, the nozzle 132
When b is dropped on its discharge side, ie when it is supported, 2
Two outer ridges 236, 238 directly support the nozzle and protect the central ridge 232 from damage that might reverse the discharge of liquid from the orifice 230. Nozzle 13
2b further comprises a cam surface 240, 242 which preferably forms an outer ridge with tips 236, 238
including. These cam surfaces 240, 242 are
It operates as described for the cam surfaces 162, 164 of the 32a. In addition, nozzle 132b includes tabs 244,246 that operate similarly to tabs 170,172 described with respect to nozzle 132a.

The nozzle 132c is a two-radiant nozzle design having a discharge site 250 as described above. Nozzle 13
2c further comprises a cam surface 252, which operates similarly to the cam surfaces 162, 164 and cam surfaces 240, 242 described above,
254. The pair of tabs 256, 258 operate similarly to the tabs 170, 172 and tabs 244, 246 described above.

While the invention has been described by describing various preferred embodiments and the embodiments have been described in some detail, it is intended that the claims be limited to such specific details or limited in any respect. It is not the applicant's intention to do so. Additional advantages and modifications will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. The various features of the invention can be used alone or in any combination depending on the needs and preferences of the user. This is a description of the present invention and known preferred methods of practicing the present invention. However, the invention itself should only be defined by the claims.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a dispensing system for dispensing thread-like liquid adapted to hold various types of air-assisted extrusion nozzles in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged sectional view showing a nozzle assembly in a lower portion of the distribution valve shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a partially exploded view showing the distribution valve including a nozzle shown in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a side perspective view showing a lower part of the distribution valve shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 shows the positioning / position of the lower part of the distribution valve shown in FIG.
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating insertion of a nozzle by a discharge lever.

FIG. 6 shows the positioning / positioning of the lower part of the distribution valve shown in FIG.
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a nozzle frictionally held by a discharge lever.

FIG. 7 shows the positioning / position of the lower part of the distribution valve shown in FIG.
It is sectional drawing which shows discharge of a nozzle by a discharge lever.

FIG. 8 is an enlarged sectional view showing a melt-blowing nozzle configured according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a cutaway front perspective view showing a fiberization control type nozzle configured according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view showing the fiberization control type nozzle of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a plan view showing the nozzle of FIGS. 9 and 10;

FIG. 12 is a bottom perspective view showing the melt blowing nozzle of FIG. 8;

FIG. 13 is a plan view showing the melt blowing nozzle of FIGS. 8 and 12;

FIG. 14 is a bottom perspective view showing a two-emission nozzle configured according to the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a front view showing the two-radiation nozzle of FIG.

FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view showing another distribution valve and a nozzle according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a partial sectional view showing a discharge portion and a nozzle of the assembled dispensing valve shown in FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a sectional view showing an upper portion of the distribution valve shown in FIG.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing one alternative nozzle shared with the distribution valve of FIG. 16;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing another alternative nozzle shared with the distribution valve shown in FIG. 16;

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 10 liquid distribution system 12 distribution valve (die module) 14 manifold 16 air valve mechanism 18 housing 20 liquid material flow passage 22 air supply passage 24, 26 air flow passage 28 annular air chamber 30 nozzle assembly 32 nozzle 36 nozzle mounting surface 38 fixing member (Wall portion) 40 Positioning lever 42 Rotating tightening lever 44 Socket head holding screw 48 Pivot pin 54, 56, 58 Cam surface 60, 62 Air inlet 64 Liquid inlet 66 Air trough 68 Air discharge passage 70 Orifice 72 Slot 74 Screw cut hole 76 Retaining ring 78 Nozzle upper surface 91 Recess 92 Projecting part

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuation of front page (72) Inventor John M. Reney United States 30519 Georgia, Buford, Goldmist Drive 3315 (72) Inventor Lawrence Bee. Sedman United States 30096 Georgia, Daruss, Bridlewood Drive 3845 (72) Inventor Paul Schmidt United States 30518 Georgia, Sugar Hill, Sweet Fern Lane 511 F-term (reference) 4F033 AA01 BA01 BA03 CA11 DA01 DA05 EA01 GA01 GA06 NA01 PA11 PD01 QA01 QB02Y QB03X QB12Y QB17 QB18 QC01 QD21 QD24 QD25 QE09 QE21 4F041 AA02 AA16 AB01 BA05 BA13 BA36 BA54 BA57

Claims (33)

[Claims] 1. An apparatus for dispensing a liquid thread assisted by pressurized process air, comprising: a) 1) a liquid supply passage; 2) a process air supply passage; 3) the liquid supply passage and the liquid supply passage. A housing having a nozzle mounting surface with an open process air supply passage; b) an inlet side disposed adjacent to the mounting surface; at least one liquid discharge orifice and a plurality of liquid discharge orifices adjacent the liquid discharge orifice. A nozzle having a process air discharge passage, wherein the liquid discharge orifice and the process air discharge passage are in fluid communication with the liquid supply passage and the process air supply passage of the housing, respectively. C) a nozzle ejection lever pivotally mounted on the housing, the nozzle being adjacent to the mounting surface. From a first position in which the process air discharge passage is in fluid communication with the process air supply passage when sealed and mounted, and the liquid discharge orifice is in fluid communication with the liquid supply passage, the discharge lever attaches the nozzle to the nozzle. The second to move from the surface
And a nozzle discharge lever rotatable to a position of (b). 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said ejection lever includes a surface engageable with said nozzle, and rotation of said ejection lever from a first position to a second position causes said nozzle to rotate. An apparatus characterized by being pushed away from said mounting surface. 3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said apparatus comprises a clamping lever pivotally connected to said housing and said nozzle coupled to said clamping lever to move said clamping lever between a relaxed position and a clamping position. And a fastener that can be moved relative to the nozzle, wherein the clamping lever can hold and seal the nozzle against the mounting surface in the clamping position. 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein said nozzle includes a cam surface, and wherein said clamping lever engages said cam surface during movement to said clamping position to move said nozzle relative to said mounting surface. A device characterized by holding and sealing. 5. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein said tightening lever and said nozzle discharge lever rotate about the same axis. 6. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the dispenser includes a liquid inlet, a liquid outlet, and a valve member that can selectively block or permit the flow of liquid through the outlet. The apparatus further comprising a valve, wherein the liquid outlet is coupled and is in fluid communication with the liquid supply passage of the housing. 7. An apparatus for dispensing a thread of liquid assisted by pressurized process air, comprising: a) 1) a liquid supply passage, 2) a process air supply passage, 3) the liquid supply passage and the liquid supply passage. A housing having a recess with a nozzle mounting surface opening the process air supply passage; b) an inlet side located adjacent said mounting surface, at least one liquid discharge orifice and at least one liquid discharge orifice. A nozzle having an outlet side having a plurality of adjacent process air discharge passages, wherein the liquid discharge orifice and the process air discharge passage are connected to the liquid supply passage and the process air supply passage of the housing, respectively. A nozzle adapted to communicate with said nozzle; c) a nozzle positioning lever pivotally mounted on said housing, said nozzle positioning lever comprising: From a first position in which the nozzle is held in the recess, the process air discharge passage is in fluid communication with the process air supply passage, and the liquid discharge orifice is located from a first position for sealing and mounting adjacent to the mounting surface. A nozzle positioning lever pivotable to a second position in fluid communication with the liquid supply passage. 8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the recess includes a first side including a wall and a second side on which a positioning lever is pivotally mounted, wherein the positioning lever is mounted on the wall. A rotation of the positioning lever from the second position to the first position, the surface having a surface movable toward and away from the nozzle, for urging the nozzle toward the wall and the mounting surface; An apparatus characterized in that: 9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein said nozzle includes a first cam surface, said recess includes a mating cam surface extending from said wall, and said first cam surface and said first cam surface are coupled to each other. Apparatus, wherein the nozzle engages with a mating cam surface as the nozzle is urged toward the wall by the positioning lever, thereby moving the nozzle relative to the mounting surface. 10. A fastening lever pivotally connected to said housing and a fastener coupled to said fastening lever for moving said fastening lever relative to said recess between a relaxed position and a tightened position, 9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the clamping lever is capable of holding and sealing the nozzle against the mounting surface in the clamping position. 11. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein said nozzle includes a second cam surface and said clamping lever engages said cam surface during movement to said clamping position to attach said nozzle. An apparatus characterized by being held and sealed against a surface. 12. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein said mounting surface of said housing includes a centering member extending from said mounting surface, and said nozzle includes a centering recess.
The alignment recess is arranged to receive the alignment member when the nozzle is mounted adjacent the mounting surface, the process air discharge passage in fluid communication with the process air supply passage, and the liquid An apparatus wherein a discharge orifice is in fluid communication with said liquid supply passage. 13. An air trough according to claim 7, wherein said nozzle is in fluid communication with said process air discharge passage of said nozzle and said process air supply passage of said housing at said inlet side. Further comprising
The trough further defines a tortuous path for process air flowing between the inlet side of the nozzle and the process air discharge passage to reduce the velocity of the process air flowing out of the process air discharge passage. An apparatus characterized in that 14. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the apparatus has a liquid inlet, a liquid outlet, and a valve member that can selectively block or permit the flow of liquid through the outlet. The apparatus further comprising a valve, wherein the liquid outlet is coupled and is in fluid communication with the liquid supply passage of the housing. 15. An apparatus for dispensing a thread of liquid assisted by pressurized process air, comprising: a) 1) a liquid supply passage, 2) a process air supply passage, and 3) a first cam surface. A housing having a recess having a nozzle mounting surface through which the liquid supply passage and the process air supply passage open; b) an inlet side disposed adjacent the mounting surface; and at least one liquid. A nozzle having a discharge orifice and an outlet side having a plurality of process air discharge passages adjacent to the liquid discharge orifice, and further including second and third cam surfaces, the nozzle including the liquid discharge orifice and the process air discharge. Nozzles having passages in fluid communication with the liquid supply passage and the process air supply passage, respectively, of the housing; c) pivoting with the housing. A clamping lever including a fourth cam surface, wherein the nozzle is inserted into the recess adjacent the mounting surface and the process air discharge passages are in fluid communication from the first position. The first and second cam surfaces are urged together and the third and fourth cam surfaces are also urged together to seal the inlet side of the nozzle against the mounting surface and to provide the process air. A clamping lever pivotable to a second position in which the supply passage and the liquid discharge orifice are in fluid communication with the liquid supply passage. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, further comprising a fastener coupled to said clamping lever and rotatable to move said clamping lever between said clamped position and said relaxed position. An apparatus characterized in that it comprises: 17. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein said fastening member is pivotally connected to said housing at a position between said fastener and said fourth cam surface, said fastener thereby allowing said fastener to be secured. An apparatus, wherein rotating causes the fourth cam surface to rotate relative to the third cam surface. 18. A system capable of dispensing liquid filaments and converting two filament distribution patterns, assisted by pressurized process air, comprising: a) 1) fluid communication with the liquid outlet of the distribution valve. A) a liquid supply passage, 2) a process air supply passage, and 3) a recess having a nozzle mounting surface on which the liquid supply passage and the process air supply passage open. An inlet side located adjacent the mounting surface, at least one liquid discharge orifice and a first
A first nozzle having a plurality of process air discharge passages disposed adjacent to the liquid discharge orifice in the shape of a liquid discharge orifice, the liquid discharge orifice, the process air discharge passage, A first nozzle adapted to be in fluid communication with the liquid supply passage and the process air supply passage, respectively, of the housing; c) an inlet side and an outlet adapted to replace the first nozzle. A second nozzle having an inlet side, wherein the inlet side of the second nozzle is disposed within the recess adjacent to the mounting surface and can be mounted in sealing engagement with the mounting surface; A side having at least one liquid discharge orifice and a plurality of protuberances disposed in a second shape different from the first shape and disposed adjacent to the liquid discharge orifice of the second nozzle. The second nozzle is mounted on the mounting surface in the recess as a substitute for the first nozzle, the liquid discharge passage of the second nozzle and the process air are provided. A system comprising: a second nozzle having a discharge passage in fluid communication with the liquid supply passage and the process air supply passage, respectively. 19. The apparatus according to claim 18, wherein said first and second nozzles include a nozzle having a liquid discharge orifice and a process air discharge passage adapted to produce a melt blown filament, and a swirl filament. An apparatus, each selected from the group consisting of a liquid discharge orifice adapted to produce a body and a nozzle having a process air discharge passage. 20. A nozzle adapted to be coupled to a distributor having a mounting recess with a first cam surface and a clamping member with a second cam surface, said nozzle being pressurized. A nozzle including a liquid inlet and a process air inlet, a liquid discharge orifice in fluid communication with the liquid inlet, and a fluid communication with the process air inlet. A nozzle body having a bottom portion including a plurality of process air discharge passages, a plurality of side walls, and a cam surface adapted to individually engage with the first and second cam surfaces of the distributor. A nozzle comprising: first and second opposing side wall portions, each of which extends on the top side and the bottom side. 21. The nozzle according to claim 20, wherein said nozzle further comprises a plurality of liquid discharge orifices in said nozzle body, said liquid discharge orifice and said process air discharge passage producing a melt blown filament. A nozzle, characterized in that the nozzle is 22. The nozzle according to claim 21, further comprising a first ridge having a first tip,
The liquid discharge orifice is located at the first tip, and second and third ridges are located on opposite sides of the first ridge and each individual second ridge projects beyond the first ridge. And a third tip. 23. The nozzle according to claim 20, further comprising a plurality of liquid discharge orifices in said nozzle body, wherein said liquid discharge orifice and said process air discharge passage pivot from each of said liquid discharge orifices. A nozzle adapted to produce a thread. 24. The nozzle according to claim 20, wherein said liquid discharge orifice and said process air discharge passage produce a swirl thread. 25. The nozzle according to claim 20, further comprising an air trough on the top side adapted to be in fluid communication with the process air inlet and the process air discharge passage of the nozzle. The trough forms a tortuous path for process air flowing between the top side of the nozzle and the process air discharge passage to reduce the velocity of process air flowing out of the process air discharge passage. A nozzle that reduces the velocity of the process air entering the nozzle. 26. An apparatus for dispensing a liquid thread, comprising: a) 1) a liquid supply passage; and 2) a housing having a nozzle mounting surface on which the liquid supply passage and the process air supply passage open. B) a nozzle having an inlet side located adjacent to said mounting surface and an outlet side having at least one liquid discharge orifice for distributing filaments, said liquid discharge orifice being located in said housing. A nozzle adapted to be in fluid communication with a liquid supply passage; and c) a nozzle tightening / discharging lever pivotally mounted on the housing, the lever sealingly mounting the nozzle adjacent the mounting surface. A second position in which the clamping / discharging lever clamps the nozzle against the mounting surface from a first position in which the liquid discharge orifice is in fluid communication with the liquid supply passage. And a nozzle tightening / discharging lever operable to pivot the locking / discharging lever back to the first position to further move the nozzle from the mounting surface. An apparatus characterized in that: 27. The apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the apparatus has a first side wall portion of the nozzle extending on the inlet side and the outlet side, and a slot extending from the nozzle mounting surface of the housing. A second side wall portion including a tab, a tab protrudes from the first side wall portion, and the tab is received in the slot so that the nozzle is positioned at a desired position on the nozzle mounting surface. An apparatus characterized by aligning. 28. The apparatus according to claim 27, wherein the apparatus includes a third side wall opposite the nozzle from the first side wall, and a nozzle mounting surface extending from the second side wall. A fourth side wall including a second slot on an opposite side, wherein a second tab protrudes from the third side wall, and the second tab is received in the second slot. An apparatus for aligning the nozzle at a desired location with the nozzle mounting surface. 29. The apparatus according to claim 27, wherein said nozzle tightening / ejecting lever engages said tab during rotation thereof to eject said nozzle from said nozzle mounting surface. . 30. The apparatus according to claim 29, wherein said nozzle mounting / discharging lever further comprises: a first clamping member engagable with said nozzle; and a first clamping member coupled to said first clamping member and coupled with said nozzle. An engageable second clamping member; a slot between the first and second clamping members;
A discharge portion of the lever extends between the first and second fastening members, and the discharge portion engages with the tab during rotation of the lever to move the nozzle from the nozzle mounting surface. An apparatus for moving. 31. The apparatus according to claim 26, wherein said lever includes a fastening / fixing fastener, said fastener being adapted to be fastened and fixed to said housing to move said lever and to said nozzle. An apparatus for fixing the lever in a clamping position. 32. The apparatus according to claim 26, wherein said housing further comprises a process air supply passage, and said nozzle further comprises a plurality of process air discharge passages adjacent said liquid discharge orifice. An apparatus wherein a passage is in fluid communication with said process air discharge passage. 33. A valve for dispensing a thread of liquid assisted by pressurized process air, the valve selectively moving a liquid through a liquid discharge passage between the liquid discharge passage and an open / close position. A valve housing having an interior for accommodating a reciprocating valve member for permitting or blocking; a spring return mechanism coupled to the valve member for urging the valve member to the closed position; A chamber that includes a diaphragm coupled to the valve member and is divided into first and second portions, and communicates with the first portion to supply pressurized air to move the diaphragm and the valve member to the closed position; A first air supply port for urging, a second air supply port for communicating with the second portion to supply pressurized air to urge the diaphragm and the valve member to the open position; Part 1 An actuator housing that includes a discharge port that communicates with the plug, and a plug that selectively opens and closes the discharge port to discharge air introduced into the first air supply port from the first portion. Features valve.